artist Nicholas Sironka
The pandemic offers the perfect time to explore your creative side
We’re pretty sure math genius Albert Einstein meant it positively when he reputedly said, “Creativity is contagious. Pass it on.” And how apropos to 2020 when many people have rediscovered their inner artist, especially while spending more time at home and in need of outlets for their creative energies. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced maker, there are three avenues to consider: art and craft supplies, take-home kits, and classes or events designed to spur you on.
SPOKANE ART SUPPLY
They’ve been the go-to art supply depot since 1954, beloved by experienced and would-be artists alike. How about a traveling watercolor kit for the many, many (many) jaunts you’ve been taking outdoors lately? Discover a range of painting and drawing media and benefit from their expert advice, including recommendations for gift ideas for all the other budding artists you know. 1303 N. Monroe St., spokaneartsupply.com, 327-6628
ART SALVAGE
Other than a friendly staff excited to share the latest donations they’ve received in their northside store, you never know what you’re going to find at Art Salvage. The region’s first retail outlet for repurposed, recycled and related arts and craft materials is geared toward any level of maker. Let their ever-changing inventory inspire your next project or check out one of their many craft kits like the DIY Wine Cork Board kit. 1925 N. Ash St., artsalvagespokane.com, 598-8983
SPOKANE PRINT & PUBLISHING CENTER
Located next door to Art Salvage, this innovative space offers hands-on workshops in all manner of printing. Although classes are on hold for now, consider a gift certificate for a future class, such as learning to use the letterpress or creating your own screenprint. 1921 N. Ash St., spokaneprint.org, 443-3399
NORTHWEST MUSEUM OF ARTS AND CULTURE
For everyone looking forward to 2021, the MAC offers yet another reason to do so. In January, they’ve scheduled a batik class with artist Nicholas Sironka, which bodes well for future classes at everyone’s favorite museum. 2316 W. First Ave., northwestmuseum.org, 456-3931
POLKA DOT POTTERY
Four locations dot the Spokane-area map for this fun ceramic arts center: Northwest Boulevard, Pines in Spokane Valley, Spokane Valley Mall and River Park Square. Reserve a table where you can glaze your own pre-made clay items (masks required, limited capacity), create a to-go kit to do at home, or choose a pre-made kit. Once your painted pieces are finished firing, they’re ready for pickup and, since you’re there, you’ll probably want to see what else you can try. 2716 W. Northwest Blvd., 327-5437; 808 W. Main Ave #225, 624-2264; 118 S. Pines Rd., Spokane Valley, 924-2292; 14700 E. Indiana Ave., Spokane Valley, 596-8076; polkadotpottery.com
PINOT’S PALETTE
They started as the perfect pairing, adult beverages and art, but the plethora of paint-and-sip venues have become a fun entrée into making art, with or without the wine. Pinot’s Palette on Sprague Avenue offers both virtual classes — use your own supplies or purchase theirs — and assorted take-home painting kits that appeal to all ages. 319 W. Sprague Ave., pinotspalette.com/spokane, 290-5098
PAINTING WITH A TWIST
Find more paint-to-go kits at this Spokane Valley store, with either prerecorded virtual instruction or live instruction via Zoom. Stay tuned to their website, which is teeming with events, including transitioning back to in-studio painting sessions so you and your friends can make a date out of it. 11703 E. Sprague Ave., #B3, Spokane Valley, paintingwithatwist.com, 413-9892
BOARD & BRUSH
Similar to paint-and-sip locations, Board & Brush offers in-person workshops (currently on a limited basis) and at-home kits to help you paint, letter and craft ordinary wood into ornaments, signs and other home décor. 1314 S. Grand Blvd., #3, boardandbrush.com/spokane, 821-0105
SPOKANE COUNTY LIBRARY
Looking for something crafty to do with the kiddos? Your local library has you covered with Family Creativity Kits at various locations throughout the month of December. You get supplies and directions for several thematic activities, a recommended reading list, and suggested ways to continue exploring. And guess what? It’s free! Visit scld.org and click on Events υ
